PEr Chronicles: Your Words Might Change a Life. Use Them Wisely

The Wild West of a trade war. Trump was playing chicken with a tariff tantrum. Then he chickened out. China fired back with tit-for-tat tariffs on US goods. International trade these days seems to run less on logic and more on ego.

Most people are honest and hardworking. Others, driven by selfishness, a thirst for power, show little concern for others—especially in business, where leadership and privilege can cloud ethical judgment.

Empathy for people you agree with is easy. Empathy for someone you deeply, passionately disagree with is hard. I aspire to this kind of empathy, but often fall short. I know when my emotions get the best of me, and it’s something I constantly work on. I reflect, learn from it, and, with my tail between my legs, apologize for any hurt I’ve caused.

Stress might explain a meltdown, but it doesn’t excuse it. It’s not that high performers don’t feel the heat — they are human like the rest of us. But while others spiral, they master their emotions, regulate their reactions, and stay in control. That’s what sets them apart. Mastering emotions is tough—for me, maybe for you too. You can choose to change or stay the same, but only you can face your own demons. I can tell you one of my demons: I am impatient. I work on it constantly.

Personally and professionally, I’ve lived through highs and lows, times when I felt on top of the world and others when I was in a deep, dark hole. Old wounds still hurt, but I’ve gained perspective. Time will do that. I look back on things that used to feel monumental, with clearer, calmer eyes.

I’m fortunate to hear from people from all over the world through my articles posts and conversations. I’ve received numerous messages about how something I wrote or said helped change a life, offered insight, or encouraged someone. Their messages made me realise that we really have no idea just how far our voices can reach or what impact they can have on others.

Encouragement doesn’t require grand words. It can be as simple as encouraging someone to stay the course, study harder, speak out, try out, pursue something different, change their lives or behaviour, or strive to do something better. Something as simple as saying, “You made the right decision – well done” can inspire someone who’s down or second guessing themselves. Affirming, “You should be proud, you worked so hard” can make someone’s day.

We never know the effect our words will have on others. Teach, share, educate, guide, mentor and encourage not because there is a reward in it for you, but because it’s the right thing to do.